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What are data types?

Just like in real life, Python works with different kinds of information. You can’t add someone’s name to their age - they’re different types of data. Python has four main data types you’ll use constantly:
  • Numbers for counting and calculations
  • Text for words and messages
  • True/False for decisions
Each type has its own rules and abilities. Let’s explore them.

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The main types

Numbers

Integers and decimals for math

Strings

Text, words, and characters

Booleans

True or False values

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Why we need data types

Python needs to know what type of data you’re working with: 
# Numbers can do math
total = 10 + 5  # 15

# Strings combine differently  
name = "Hello" + "World"  # "HelloWorld"

# Can't mix without converting
# age = "25" + 5  # Error!
age = int("25") + 5  # 30 (converted string to number)

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Checking types

You can always check what type something is with type(): 
# Check different types
print(type(42))          # <class 'int'>
print(type(3.14))        # <class 'float'>
print(type("Hello"))     # <class 'str'>
print(type(True))        # <class 'bool'>

# Check variables
age = 25
name = "Alice"
print(type(age))         # <class 'int'>
print(type(name))        # <class 'str'>

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Start learning

Pick a data type to explore - numbers are a great place to start!

Learn about numbers

Integers and floats